It’s been a while since I’ve picked up an issue of Batman ’66. On a week that doesn’t have a ton that holds interest for a casual reader, you can always be sure that Batman ’66 is just the quick fix you need. Usually continuity-free and full of the same lovable banter you remember from the TV series, Batman ’66 is always an enjoyable read.

It’s starting to look like throwback week here. Again, Judge Dredd is an old reliable title that always delivers the action and sci-fi goods. This smells like a collection of previously published 2000 AD material, but I could be wrong. Read the solicit and decide for yourself. (Or you could, you know, do a little more research than I did)

“An oversized array of classic Judge Dredd stories drawn by a murderer’s row of beloved 2000AD artists not yet published by IDW! ‘The Law According to Judge Dredd,’ Judge Minty, monkey business, zombies, Uncle Ump, and even Santa Claus all make an appearance in this big drokkin’ book. “

Daredevil #1

Daredevil #1. By: Mark Waid, Chris Samnee. Marvel Comics.

A new chapter starts in Matt Murdock’s life as the hero heads West. All the way West to California.

I’ve heard great things about Mark Waid’s run on the title. This looks like the perfect place for a casual fan to jump back into the adventures of ol’ hornhead.

I enjoyed the first issue of the new Ms. Marvel series, but it left me questioning whether the story can maintain momentum. It’s the moment of truth for Kamala Khan. I’ll buy this one and let you know whether the series is going to crash to Earth or soar into the clouds.

Ohmygosh. American Vampire is back. Long story, but I got hooked on this title when I attended (quite by accident) an American Vampire panel at San Diego Comic Con in 2009. I was just sitting in the room waiting for the Rifftrax panel that was due to start later that afternoon.

While cooling my heels in the room, Snyder and Albuquerque talked about the comic for an hour and it looked pretty dang cool. Later that evening, I stopped by a booth to pick up a copy and Albuquerque just happened to be there. He signed my copy of the trade hardcover and drew a sketch on the inside of the cover.

I thought to myself, “I sure hope I like this book, because otherwise I wasted a lot of his time”. Luckily, the story was terrific and the art was awesome. I’m super-excited to see what the duo has in store for the new title.

That’s why American Vampire Second Cycle #1 is my pick for the Casual Comics Hot Pick of the Week.

Alternately…

Since there’s not a lot new out this week, keep your eyes peeled for She-Hulk #1-2, Secret Avengers #1, Deadly Class #1-2, and the Saga Trade Paperbacks. Those are just a few of the titles I’ve really enjoyed over the last few weeks.

Or, do what I’ve been doing and scour the old comics racks for copies of old titles that feature your favorite characters. Most recent addition to my library? Strange Tales (featuring Cloak and Dagger) #1-6.